Boat docking system and method

Abstract

This boat docking system allows small or medium size boats to dock under adverse conditions of swift currents and contrary winds with limited crew and no assistance from shore. The invention includes a docking stick to be used from the boat and a small vertical post that is permanently attached to the dock. The docking stick is comprised of a rigid handle with a stiffened loop at one end and a flexible adjustable loop at the other end. As the boat approaches the dock the flexible end of the docking stick is attached to the boat amidships, and the stiffened loop is dropped over the post, or a cleat, on the dock. The boat is then powered slowly forward. The resultant pull on the boat forces it to move sideways towards the dock where it will remain stationary, under power, until securing lines can be attached to the boat.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A docking stick for mooring a boat to a docking post on a dock, comprising a central, stiffened portion, a stiffened loop attached to one end of said central portion for encircling the docking post as the boat approaches the dock, and a flexible line portion attached to the other end of said central portion for attachment to the boat.  
     
     
         2 . A docking stick as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein said flexible line portion is formed into an adjustable loop.  
     
     
         3 . The method of docking a boat to a dock on which a docking post is mounted, comprising the steps of: 
 a. Providing a docking stick having a stiffened central portion, a stiffened loop attached to one end of said central portion, and a flexible line portion attached to the other end of said central portion;    b. Attaching said flexible line portion to the boat; and    c. Attaching said stiffened loop to said docking member as the boat is pulled alongside the dock.    
     
     
         4 . The method of docking as claimed in  claim 3 , and comprising the additional step of continuing to power the boat slowly forward to move the boat toward the dock, allowing other mooring lies to be attached if desired.